Full Breakdown
Rolling Stones Unveil “Foreign Tongues,” Their 25th Studio Album
7/14/2026, 11:31:26 AM
Core Event
On July 10, 2026, the English rock band The Rolling Stones released “Foreign Tongues,” their 25th studio album. The 14-track record was recorded in less than a month at Metropolis Studios in London and includes a posthumous drum performance by late drummer Charlie Watts on “Hit Me In The Head,” captured during one of his final studio sessions before his 2021 death.
Background & Context
The Stones’ previous release, “Hackney Diamonds” (2023), marked a comeback after the 2021 loss of Watts. Both albums were produced with longtime collaborator Andrew Watt and feature the surviving triumvirate—Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood—who have continued to issue new material more than six decades after their 1964 debut.
Key Figures & Collaborators
- Mick Jagger – lead vocalist, primary songwriter.
- Keith Richards – guitarist, occasional vocalist.
- Ronnie Wood – guitarist.
- Steve Jordan – drums, filling Watts’ role.
- Darryl Jones – bass; Matt Clifford – keyboards.
- Andrew Watt – producer.
- Guest artists: Paul McCartney (bass on “Covered in You”), Steve Winwood (keyboards), Robert Smith of The Cure (guitar on “Divine Intervention”), Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers (bass drum on “Beautiful Delilah”), and Bruno Mars (cowbell on “Never Wanna Lose You”).
Data & Statistics
- Album number: 25th studio release.
- Tracks: 14, including original songs and covers of Amy Winehouse’s “You Know I’m No Good” and Chuck Berry’s “Beautiful Delilah.”
- Recording timeline: under one month, described by the band as an “intense few weeks.”
Official Statements & Responses
Mick Jagger praised the London sessions, noting the studio’s intimate size helped capture the band’s collective passion. He also revealed he has already begun writing new material that could lead to additional releases, emphasizing an open-minded approach to songwriting that may serve other artists. Jagger hinted at a possible 2024 tour but said scheduling depends on Keith Richards’ availability, expressing hope for live shows “next year.” Keith Richards highlighted the album’s continuity with “Hackney Diamonds,” describing the process as “all about the enjoyment of it” and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to record in London again.
Criticism & Opposition
Some reviewers consider the album less cohesive than earlier efforts. One critique points to weaker moments on tracks such as “Divine Intervention” and the posthumous “Hit Me In The Head,” describing the latter as “awkward, clumsy and disjointed.” Others argue that while the record is “joyful,” it does not reach the artistic heights of the band’s classic 1960s–1970s catalog.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the album’s overall strength, with some praising its energy and others highlighting uneven songwriting. No official tour dates have been announced, leaving the exact timing of any future live performances uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I loved doing these recording sessions in London at Metropolis. It was a very intense few weeks recording Foreign Tongues. We had 14 great tracks and we went as fast as we could. I like the room there as it's not too big so you can feel the passion from everyone.” — Mick Jagger, frontman
- “Yeah, it could be a trio [of records],” — Mick Jagger, interview with *NME*
- “It’s gonna be simple, no mucking about,’” he explained.” — Mick Jagger, interview with *People*
- “ Richards added, "The Foreign Tongues album has a continuity from Hackney Diamonds and it was great to be working in London again, and to have that London vibe around us.” — Keith Richards, guitarist
What’s Next
Jagger confirmed he is actively writing new songs that may appear on future Stones releases or be offered to other artists. He also indicated the band hopes to return to the stage in 2025, contingent on Richards’ health and scheduling. The group remains focused on promoting “Foreign Tongues” while preparing for potential touring and additional studio projects.
